i want people to answer this question because i am about to buy this ligature {forget the make} which costs £40 [which i thk is about $60+]. plz tell me if it helps if u get a good ligature.
thx.

In my experience, i`ve found it does improve the sound. also, if you have the kind of ligature where the screws are facing out (the name has slipped my mind...) then those sound sooo much better, more controlled in my opinion. I currently play on a specially made Vandoren ligature (about $460), and i get a much cleaner sound. also the type of reeds you play on, and the barrel make a huge difference. and of course the clarinet its self. i`ve played on cheap ligatures ($20 or so) and i can`t even get high notes out, so now i play on the best i can get.

I recently bought a Vandoren "optimum" ligature, and I`ve noticed a TREMENDOUS change in the quality of my sound. It`s so much clearer, I absolutely love it.

If you paid $460 for a ligature you definately got ripped off. What type of vandoren ligature costs that much? And if you can`t play altissimo without a $460 ligature chances are somethings wrong with you not your equipment. The fact is a $20 Bonade ligature works just as well, its just a personal preference of what type of sound you want. But $460 is pretty lame.

I`ve tried using a shoelace as a ligature. It works very well.

It makes a very big difference. Probably moreso than the instrument in some cases. Particularly in the altissimo where response is SO critical. The best ligatures are the ones that have the least amount of contact with the reed as possible - BG Super Revelation is really good (although quite pricey). This way, the reed is able to vibrate more and doesn`t restrict response (staccato can be vastly improved with a good ligature). But don`t ignore the most important features of a good mouthpiece and reed as well.

i used a shoelace and it has been my ligature for 4 years, but a slight disavantage-no cap fits!
And u need a good mouthpiece too, i would sujest a crystal or rubber one.

a shoelace?

whoops i meant $60...my mistake...its an inverted vandoren specially fit...it gives a very rich sound and i love it

You could always try a radiator hose clamp if you`re on a budget. :P Personally I like Rovners and the Vandy Optimum.

I like the Pomarico ligature that has just one screw and is very thin. That thing really lets your reed vibrate. Works wonders on my Vandoren 5JB mouthpiece. Ligatures do make a difference on ease of playing and control of intonation. If you have the chops you can have great intonation with just about any ligature. A good one lets you relax and concentrate on something other that intonation. Has anyone tried a rubber band as a ligature?